My Story
I am a PhD-trained research scientist with 8+ years of experience running mixed-methods and quasi-experimental studies across federally and privately funded initiatives. My work sits at the intersection of educational and health equity, assessment design, R&D, and applied research, with a track record of moving projects from scientific framework through stakeholder validation into real-world implementation.
I've always been a person who wanted to know the why. Why did that work? Who did does it work for? Who does it leave out? And who isn't showing up in the numbers?
I am interested in what helps communities thrive, from the systems that shape people's opportunities to the everyday behaviors that build healthy schools and neighborhoods. My expertise includes research design, program evaluation, assessment, and turning findings into decisions leaders can act upon.
Over my career, I've lead R&D portfolios in K-12 education, managed teams and contractors across multiple states, and overseen large private and federal research projects. I began in research labs, building a foundation in rigorous people-centered research.
I earned my PhD in Health Psychology, with a concentration in Community and Behavioral Health Science, from Virginia State University where I focused on math anxiety and health outcomes. I then completed my postdoc at the University of Maryland, College Park, in the department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology.
I am based in the Research Triangle, NC. When I am not trying to find the answers to questions, you'll find me baking and listening to records with my pets and spouse.
Research Highlights
Where I've Made Recent Impact
Research Scientist
Assessment for Good (AERDF)
Developed asset-based assessment R&D across a 14-school network: managed multi-state teams, authored 1,000+ items, ran 200+ student interviews, developed frameworks, and developed reports and training materials for diverse audiences.
Data & Evaluation Manager
VSU-HBCU Center for Math
Managed the multi-site evaluation of a $3M NSF-funded HBCU center, leading data collection, analysis, and funder reporting that documented the center's progress and impact.
PostDoctoral Associate
U of Maryland, College Park
Developed assessment instruments for grades 3–5 as part of the EF+Math initiative, connecting executive function research to how students learn and succeed in math.
Assessment & Data Coordinator
VSU C.E.N.T.E.R.S.
Implemented assessments with students in grades 5–9, applying the PVEST framework to understand how identity and context shape learning, and managed data collection in schools. data collection techniques and research protocols.
Co-Founder & Chairperson
Black in Psych
Co-founded and led a thriving community for all levels in psychology for 4+ years, securing major university sponsorships and driving large-scale programming and fundraising.
Neuropsychology Tech
Neuropsychology and Psychological Healthcare
Administered neuropsychological assessments and trained new technicians in standardized testing procedures, ensuring accurate, consistent data for clinical care and research.
Education
Academic Background